The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Shaugh Prior

There are over 15 family-friendly hiking routes around Shaugh Prior, offering a variety of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging walks. These trails are designed to help you explore the stunning landscapes of Dartmoor National Park, including its ancient woodlands, river valleys, and granite tors.

The terrain around Shaugh Prior is quite varied, ranging from gentle riverside paths along the Plym and Meavy valleys to more rugged moorland tracks leading to granite tors. You'll find ancient woodlands with mossy boulders, as well as open areas with expansive views. Some paths may be uneven, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended for all family members.

Yes, for an easy and relatively short walk, consider the Cadover Bridge – Dewerstone Rock Viewpoint loop from Shaugh Prior. This route is just over 5 km and offers lovely views without significant elevation gain, making it ideal for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing.

Many trails offer breathtaking views of prominent granite tors like Dewerstone Rock, Sheepstor Tor, and Down Tor. You'll also encounter the scenic River Plym and River Meavy, ancient woodlands, and potentially prehistoric monuments like Bronze Age cists and stone rows. The Dewerstone Rock & Shaugh Bridge loop from Cadover Bridge is a great option to experience both river views and the iconic Dewerstone Rock.

Many trails in Dartmoor National Park, including those around Shaugh Prior, are dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially on open moorland where livestock (Dartmoor ponies and sheep) graze, and during bird nesting season. Always follow the Countryside Code and be mindful of other walkers and wildlife.

Parking is generally available at popular starting points like Cadover Bridge and near Shaugh Bridge. These locations often serve as convenient access points for various trails. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.

Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for family hikes, with longer daylight hours and blooming wildflowers. Autumn brings beautiful foliage to the woodlands. While winter can be stunning, conditions can be more challenging with colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy paths, so always check the forecast and dress appropriately.

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Cadover Bridge – Dewerstone Rock Viewpoint loop from River Meavy is a moderate circular option that provides diverse scenery.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of landscapes from river valleys to open moorland, and the sense of adventure offered by trails leading to impressive tors. The clear paths and opportunities for wildlife spotting are also frequently highlighted.

While Shaugh Prior itself is a small village, there are pubs and cafes in nearby communities within Dartmoor National Park or on the outskirts towards Plymouth. It's a good idea to check opening times and availability in advance, especially during off-peak seasons.

For a comfortable family hike, we recommend bringing sturdy walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (layers are key for Dartmoor's changeable weather), water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. A map or a fully charged phone with a navigation app like komoot is also advisable, especially on longer routes. Don't forget binoculars for spotting wildlife and a camera for the stunning views!

While the region is known for its rivers, prominent waterfalls are less common directly on the family-friendly routes listed. However, the wider Dartmoor area does feature natural monuments like Lydia Bridge Waterfall, which might be accessible via other trails or a short drive. The Plym and Meavy rivers themselves offer beautiful riverside scenery.